Storm Surge

What is Storm Surge?

Storm surge is a rise above the normal water level along the shore as a result of strong onshore winds and/or reduced atmospheric pressure. Storm surge may be significant when it accompanies a tropical cyclone as it comes ashore.

The worst impacts occur when the storm surge arrives on top of a high tide. If this happens, the storm tide can reach areas that might otherwise have remained dry. Powerful winds can also generate pounding waves.

Sea water flooding may extend along the coast for more than 100 kilometres, with water pushing several kilometres inland if the land is low lying.